Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am deeply concerned by the severe humanitarian and human rights crisis in Sudan caused by the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Since the conflict began in April, over 6.2 million people have fled their homes and nearly 25 million people - half of the population - are in need of humanitarian aid and protection assistance.

Ireland continues to offer practical support to the people of Sudan, and to engage with diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict.

Ireland has provided over €7 million in humanitarian and development aid to Sudan so far this year, together with further assistance for Sudanese refugees in neighbouring countries. Together, the EU and its Member States have pledged over €500 million to the Sudan humanitarian response as well as organising two Humanitarian Air Bridge operations to Chad and Sudan.

Ireland has consistently emphasised the need for maintenance of humanitarian access, a cessation of hostilities, and a clear role for civil society in Sudan's political future. At meetings of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in May and June, the Tánaiste highlighted the heavy toll which the conflict was taking on civilians and called for consideration of additional sanctions to increase pressure on the parties. In October, the EU agreed on a new autonomous sanctions framework which targets those impeding peace, in particular those who attack civilians and obstruct humanitarian access.

A ceasefire is urgently needed. On 14 November, the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide warned that that the risk of genocide was high, in particular in Darfur. We will continue to work with partners to help facilitate a democratic and peaceful future for Sudan and its people.